Felting a Small Faux Fleece

Start with raw, unwashed sheep’s fleece and transform it into a warm and wooly chair pad, pillow top, or other decorative element. Using hot water, soap, and a little elbow grease, students will work alongside felter Becky Utecht to practice the technique of felting a raw, aromatic fleece into one piece while preserving its sheepskin-like appearance. Students will head home with a freshly washed small felted fleece, which will serve as a beautiful and warm household accessory, with no harm to the sheep! After this project, students will be able to go home and apply the same technique to larger fleeces to make rugs or lap blankets.

A selection of fleeces will be provided for each student to choose their own portion. A $45 materials fee is payable in class to cover specialized equipment and materials. Students need to be able to stand for a long time and will need hand and arm strength to complete this project; be prepared to work outside under provided shade, and to get wet and dirty. While not required, students should also bring the following items if they have them: a large watering can, a few old bath towels suitable for getting messy, favorite hand-felting tools, and a waterproof apron.

Suitable for ages 17+, or ages 14–16 accompanied by a registered adult.